Gulf Coast States

[Army Wife'79]

I feel bad for the Coast Guard folks who are risking their own lives now rescuing people who wouldn't evacuate.
I think the 911 operators should just not answer the phones but the newscaster just said "If you are in danger of the storm now you should call 911".

[KSUViolet06]

Hope everybody in Ike's path stays safe!

On a slightly funny note: I was watching the CNN coverage and saw a tow truck with a sign saying "Go home Ike, Tina's not here."

[SWTXBelle]

Coast Guard has called off a rescue attempt - 22 on a tanker whose engine failed 100 miles out of Galveston. 80 knot (130 mph) winds meant they (CG) had to turn around. Eternal Father, strong to save . . . .

There is a fire at the Galveston Yacht Basin - can't do anything about it.

They are now predicting it will arrive around midnight. Mayor White is just now speaking - by 6:30 we should start having hurricane force winds, so they want us off the highways. No problem! Also, looters have been warned - curfews begin at 7 for all places with a mandatory evacuation order. Apparently, the sheriff saw some dimwits kayaking down Buffalo Bayou.

Me? I'm getting ready to bathe my boys - don't know when we'll be able to have warm baths and showers after tonight. Washing clothes, dishes, anything we can - got the crates inside for the dogs - now it's just a waiting game.

[KSUViolet06]

Be safe over there Belle. Keep us posted as long as you can safely do so.

[SWTXBelle]

Winds are REALLY picking up - they say rain should start soon. Mason Creek is right behind my house, but has been deepened so much flooding shouldn't be a problem.

I just want it to be over . . .and it has barely begun.

Army and National Guard are right down the road at Tully Stadium. They'll wait out the storm and then once it is over they will help evacuees return. They've been busing special needs citizens and others out of low-lying areas. Two buses that had gone out had to return because of the winds. They were headed to Seabrook, where my crazy uncle is riding out the storm in his third story condo. We're not happy about him being there. Why, oh WHY would you want to be in harm's way when it is so easy to drive a few hours and be safe?

[nate2512]

I didn't evacuate this one, we're getting ready to take Ike head on.

[FSUZeta]

prayers and good wishes for all our texas gc'ers.

[SWTXBelle]

The lights are flickering.
It is too damn early to lose power.

At least I got my shower in before it went! If you don't hear from me, it means the power is finally out, and I am sulking in the dark.